SNAKES have been given a new home in Cheshire.
Compass Minerals UK has installed a habitat for grass snakes above its rock salt mine in Winsford.
A survey was carried out by an ecologist and measures have now been taken to support the non-venomous protected species.
James Noblett, Compass Mineral’s head of safety, health, environment and quality, said: “During the survey, we identified areas of scrubland that we will not cut back to provide essential shelter for these snakes.
“Additionally, we installed black sheeting in areas used by the snakes.
“This sheeting soaks up the sun so the snakes have a place to shelter underneath or they can bask on them during warm weather.”
Mr Noblett added: “This initiative underpins Compass Minerals' commitment to biodiversity conservation and highlights our responsibility to protect and preserve the delicate balance of our local ecosystems.”
The Winsford rock salt mine is the UK’s largest and oldest working mine, dating back to 1844.
It lies around 150 meters below the ground and provides salt that is used to help thaw icy roads in the winter.
The mine is also home to DeepStore, a huge space used to store things such as treasured paintings and public records belonging to The National Archives.
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